Heeding the Divine Call
How 'He That Hath Ears to Hear' Transformed My Approach to Local Ministry
Heeding the Divine Call
how to avoid becoming a spiritually/religiously codependent congregation
How 'He That Hath Ears to Hear' Transformed My Approach to Local Ministry
One of the most recurrent and striking phrases uttered by Jesus in the New Testament is "He that hath ears to hear, let him hear." This statement serves as both an invitation and a challenge, a call to spiritual insight and personal responsibility. Yet, what does this phrase genuinely mean, and how does understanding it affect the way we approach ministry and Christian life? This article aims to dissect the phrase's biblical and theological implications and examine its transformative power in a local ministry setting.
Biblical Context: "He That Hath Ears to Hear, Let Him Hear"
The Parable of the Sower: Found in Matthew 13:9, Mark 4:9, and Luke 8:8, this is perhaps the most famous instance where the phrase is used. Jesus employs the phrase to challenge the listener to evaluate the condition of their heart, represented by the various types of soil. The phrase underlines the teaching that the effectiveness of God's Word in a person's life depends on the individual's receptivity and readiness to act.
Explaining Parables: This phrase recurs in both Matthew 13:43 and Mark 4:23, following the interpretation of significant parables. In Matthew, it is used after the Parable of the Wheat and Tares, emphasizing the consequences of one's choices in light of coming judgment. In Mark, it serves to emphasize the importance of spiritual discernment and receptivity after Jesus explains the Parable of the Sower. Though the contexts slightly differ, both occurrences stress the importance of understanding and acting upon Jesus' teachings.
Cost of Discipleship (Matthew 11:15): This occurrence stands out as it doesn't follow a parable. Instead, it follows Jesus' invitation to take on His yoke, illuminating the seriousness of committing to a life of discipleship.
Good and Evil Treasures of the Heart (Luke 14:35): Unlike the other instances, this one follows teachings about being the salt of the earth. It serves as a reminder to maintain spiritual integrity and effectiveness as a disciple.
Each use of the phrase serves as a sobering reminder of the gravity of Jesus' teachings. They are not optional wisdom to consider but eternal truths requiring immediate attention, understanding, and action. When understood in its full context and implications, this phrase forms a compelling basis for a pastoral approach that respects the personal responsibility of each church member to heed the Word of God.
Letters to the Seven Churches
Church in Ephesus (Revelation 2:7): The phrase follows a warning about losing one's first love and an invitation to repent and do the first works. It emphasizes the enduring necessity of keeping Christ at the center of one's life.
Church in Smyrna (Revelation 2:11): Here, the phrase follows an encouragement to be faithful unto death to receive the crown of life. It reinforces the need for enduring faithfulness amidst trials.
Church in Pergamos (Revelation 2:17): Following a warning about holding the doctrine of Balaam and the Nicolaitans, the phrase calls for heedfulness to God's moral standards.
Church in Thyatira (Revelation 2:29): Occurring after a commendation for love and service but also a warning about tolerating false teaching, the phrase stresses the critical balance of truth and love in Christian living.
Church in Sardis (Revelation 3:6): After a call to repent for being spiritually dead, the phrase emphasizes the urgency of spiritual vigilance and renewal.
Church in Philadelphia (Revelation 3:13): The phrase is used after a commendation for keeping God's word and a promise of being kept from the hour of trial. It underscores the rewards of faithful obedience.
Church in Laodicea (Revelation 3:22): Following a rebuke for lukewarmness and a call to repent, the phrase serves as a final, overarching call to heedfulness and spiritual integrity.
In each of these seven instances in the Book of Revelation, the phrase serves to accentuate the timeliness and timelessness of the messages to the churches. Whether a warning or an encouragement, the phrase highlights the gravity of what is being conveyed. It's as if each message is sealed with the stamp of "urgent and important, for all." These divine messages aren't confined to historical or cultural boundaries; they are eternally relevant, resonating with believers across the ages. Therefore, understanding the weight of this phrase in the context of Revelation enriches our appreciation of its function and form, emphasizing personal responsibility to heed God's Word.
Theological Implications
A Call to Deep Listening
When Jesus says, "He that hath ears to hear, let him hear," he's not just talking about physical hearing. It's a call to a more involved kind of listening with accompanying action. First, it's about absorbing what's said. Next, it's about understanding these words in the context of faith and life. Finally, it leads to action, proving that the words have truly been internalized.
Hearing in this context isn't passive; it's a form of active engagement. It takes the message from being an abstract idea to becoming a part of your life. When Jesus invites people to hear this way, he's asking them to take personal responsibility for their spiritual growth.
Personal Responsibility and the Onus of Action
When Jesus says, "He that hath ears to hear, let him hear," he moves beyond the auditory to the actionable. Jesus assigns the listener the task of personal change, signaling that transformation isn't optional but obligatory.
The Gospel serves as a catalyst, offering the truths that underpin spiritual growth and moral integrity. However, the individual must do more than just listen; they must also reflect, understand, and integrate these truths into daily life.
In sum, the Gospel's message emphasizes an active engagement with spirituality, underscoring the importance of personal responsibility in the spiritual journey.
The Practical Impact on Local Ministry
A Love for the Word
The preacher's primary drive is a deep reverence for scriptural truth. This motivates him to delve into complex or challenging subjects rather than opting for "easy" topics that may be more palatable but less edifying.
Respect for the Congregation
The preacher's willingness to address difficult topics serves as an indicator of respect for his audience. Rather than "phoning it in" with agreeable but shallow messages, the preacher trusts the congregation's spiritual maturity and capacity for change.
A Culture of Empowerment
Preaching with this attitude fosters a culture of empowerment among congregants. The preacher's stance essentially communicates: "I believe you can handle these truths, make the necessary changes, and if you need help, I'm here to assist. You can do it!"
This way of preaching fosters a level of authenticity and respect that can significantly impact both the spiritual and numerical growth of a congregation.
The phrase in question is not just a theological concept but a practical tool that shapes the ethos and practice of a thriving local ministry.
Freedom to Preach Unfiltered Truth
With the clarity that each member of the congregation is responsible for how they respond to the Word, a preacher can boldly proclaim even the most challenging biblical truths. There's no need to micromanage spiritual journeys; the Word of God, once given, accomplishes its work in receptive hearts.
Creating a Conducive Atmosphere
This understanding fosters an environment of trust and empowerment, as the congregation knows that they are both guided and respected. This atmosphere is not only conducive to spiritual growth but also attracts new believers, contributing to both spiritual and numerical expansion.
Long-Suffering and Forbearance
The understanding that everyone is on their own spiritual journey allows for greater patience with those who are growing or struggling. While biblical standards are upheld, and church discipline remains an option for open rebellion, there's more room for long-suffering and forbearance.
Conclusion
The phrase "He that hath ears to hear, let him hear" operates as more than mere poetic ornamentation; it stands as a theological cornerstone, emphasizing personal responsibility for one's spiritual journey. Jesus' use of the phrase is a paradigm of leadership that neither bullies nor coerces. Unlike the forceful tactics often employed by those desperate for their words to have weight, Jesus presents the truth and leaves the next steps up to each individual. In granting us free will, He offers a sublime gift—one that He invites us to return through obedience and love. It's an approach that respects and dignifies the listener, empowering rather than infantilizing. The grasp of such a foundational principle liberates preachers to address challenging truths without reservation and fosters church environments where both faith and numbers can robustly grow.
Wonderful article! I cut me to the heart, but I knew it wasn’t directed at me! Thank you for your efforts in strengthening the brotherhood everywhere!